Literacy Volunteers receives Wal-Mart grant

Contributed | BDN

Contributed | BDN

December 17, 2008 6:25 pmUpdated: February 13, 2011 11:10 am

BANGOR, Maine — The Wal-Mart Foundation has awarded a $15,000 grant to Literacy Volunteers of Bangor to expand volunteer recruitment efforts through a targeted outreach campaign to coincide with its 40th year of service.

“It takes a tremendous amount of courage for an adult to ask for help with reading. So, when low-literate adults have to wait a long time for a tutor, this can be very disheartening,” said Dick Madore, board president of Literacy Volunteers of Bangor. “Wal-Mart’s investment in our Teach One, Reach One volunteer recruitment program will help capture the attention and time of more Mainers willing to be part of the solution.”

Through dedicated and trained volunteers, LVB empowers area adults with improved reading and English language skills through no-cost, learner-centered instruction that enhances life skills. The Wal-Mart Foundation funding will expand its volunteer recruitment efforts through a targeted public relations campaign that coincides with the agency’s 40th year of service.

Literacy Volunteers of Bangor consistently has a waiting list of adults who want to improve their reading. More volunteers will help meet this need.

“Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club are proud to help the Literacy Volunteers of Bangor recruit more volunteers and assist more people in the Bangor and Brewer areas,” said David Murray, market manager for Wal-Mart Stores Inc.

For nearly 40 years, Literacy Volunteers of Bangor has worked to improve the lives of area residents who have literacy barriers that affect their social, economical and educational opportunities. Volunteers receive training to assist an adult who is improving his or her reading and-or is learning to speak English as another language.

In 2007, Literacy Volunteers of Bangor received the Agency of Distinction for the “2 Those Who Care” Awards sponsored by WLBZ Channel 2. Adults interested in volunteering or improving their literacy are encouraged to call 947-8451 for more information, or visit www.lvbangor.org.